The Carnival of Nice is the most important winter event on the Côte d’Azur and one of the oldest and most famous carnivals in the world. 

It takes place over 2 weeks in February offering a colorful celebration of art, culture and tradition along the French Riviera.

There are 2 kinds of parades, the Corso Carnavalesque (Parade of Floats) and the Bataille de Fleurs (Flower Parade).

The Corsos feature large decorated floats, often including humorous or satirical depictions of contemporary themes. The Flower Parades showcases floats beautifully adorned with flowers. Performers in costumes throw roses, carnations and mimosas to the crowd.

Each year has a specific theme that inspires the design of the floats and costumes. Past themes included “King of Cinema”, “King of Music”, ” King of Gastronomy”. In 2025, it will be “King of the Oceans”. The burning of the King on the Promenade des Anglais marks the end of the festivities and the start of Lent. Legend has it that by burning the King, he will then rise again next year from the ashes to reign once again during the Carnival.

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